Choze Powell

St. Clair County Sheriff Warns Community Of Bitcoin Scam Posing As Law Enforcement

Sheriff Mat King is alerting St. Clair County residents about a scam involving a local 810 number impersonating law enforcement. 

The scammer, claiming to be “Deputy Mark Williams” or “Lt. McMillan,” informs victims that they have outstanding warrants and must pay via a Bitcoin kiosk to avoid arrest. The caller uses official-sounding language and local names to appear legitimate, and the voicemail mimics that of the St Clair County’s Sheriff’s Office.

The St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes that it will never contact individuals about warrants or demand payments, especially via Bitcoin or gift cards. Residents are urged to be cautious when answering unfamiliar calls and to avoid sharing personal information. If you receive a suspicious call, do not send money—contact the Sheriff’s Office at 810-987-1700 to verify its legitimacy.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

St. Clair Kennel Club Invites Community To Annual Dog Show At Goodells Park

The St. Clair Kennel Club is excited to invite dog enthusiasts and the community to its annual dog shows, set to take place on Sept. 13, 14, and 15, at Goodells Park. 

This highly anticipated event will feature approximately 700 dogs, each accompanied by their handlers and exhibitors, drawing participants from across St. Clair County, neighboring regions, other states, and even Canada.

Throughout the weekend, spectators can enjoy a variety of competitions, including judging based on the structure and movement of the dogs, with special awards for owner-handled entries. The event also offers obedience and rally trials, FETCH trials on Friday, and a Junior Showmanship competition for youth aged 9-18. A special activity is planned for children aged 5-9 on Sunday, making the event fun for the entire family.

For further information, contact: Club Secretary Barb Hahn at (586) 306-1027.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Governor Whitmer Announces Launch Of PitchMI, $100K Mobility Innovation Competition

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially opened applications for PitchMI, a statewide pitch competition offering $100,000 for an innovative solution to transform Michigan’s transportation. 

Aimed at enhancing safety, affordability, and efficiency in mobility, PitchMI is part of the Whitmer administration’s broader efforts to spur innovation, support entrepreneurs, and build a more prosperous future for the state.

PitchMI aligns with Michigan’s historic investments in infrastructure, workforce development, and innovation, reinforcing the state’s status as a hub for advanced manufacturing and research. The competition is open to Michigan-based companies with ready-to-demonstrate solutions and will take place on October 24 at the MI Future Mobility Conference in Detroit.

“PitchMI will unleash Michigan’s innovative spirit,” said Whitmer. “I look forward to seeing the creative ideas that emerge.”

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

Michigan State Police Warn Parents About Online Safety As School Year Begins

As the new school year approaches, and parents begin to flood their social media pages with their children’s back to school information, the Michigan State Police (MSP) issued a warning urging parents to protect their children’s privacy when sharing back-to-school photos online.

“Before you hit post, remember to protect your child’s privacy,” MSP shared on social media platform X. They advised against including personal details such as names, school names or locations, grade levels, ages, and teachers’ names in photos.

The warning highlights the risks of sharing identifying information that could lead unwanted individuals to the school. The timely reminder aims to help families keep their children safe as they head back to school.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

State Rep. Jaime Greene Introduces Bill To Protect Jobs Of Michigan’s Part-Time Emergency Responders

State Rep. Jaime Greene (R-Richmond) has introduced the Emergency Responders Employment Protection Act to safeguard the jobs of Michigan’s part-time and volunteer emergency responders. House Bill 5905 aims to prevent employers from disciplining or terminating employees who are absent from work due to responding to emergencies.

“No one should have to choose between saving lives and keeping their job,” Greene stated, emphasizing the need to support those who serve the community. The bill would protect responders if an emergency occurs before their shift starts or during their shift within 15 miles of their workplace.

With recruitment and retention at critically low levels, the legislation seeks to ensure that emergency responders can fulfill their duties without fear of job loss. House Bill 5905 has been referred to the House Labor Committee for further consideration.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell

MSUFCU Launches Financial Literacy Program To Empower Communities

MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) has unveiled “The Culture of Finances,” an ambitious program designed to enhance financial literacy and empowerment within the communities it serves. Led by MSUFCU’s team of financial educators, the program offers comprehensive instruction on critical topics such as budgeting, understanding credit, managing debt, fraud prevention, and setting effective financial goals.

The fall 2024 cohort is set to begin on Tuesday, Sept. 3, with registration open until Friday, Aug. 23. Open to all community members, the program provides flexible learning options, available both in person and online.

The adult course spans 12 weeks with five mandatory sessions, while the youth course lasts eight weeks with four mandatory sessions. Upon completion, participants are eligible to enter a drawing for a $500 prize.

For more information, visit: msufcu.org/thecultureoffinances.

Reporting for WGRT – Choze Powell